Aside from all of the “to-do’s”, obligations, and responsibilities, how often do you practice self-care? I mean honestly, are you able to take some time out for yourself and spend it with just yourself? Usually, people think that it’s selfish, especially those with children. But everyone should be taking care of themselves mentally and physically and that is why you should prioritize self-care. Practicing self-care will only help you become the best version of yourself possible!
Why You Should Prioritize Self-Care
Prioritizing self-care means prioritizing yourself. Self-care is the basis of our health and wellness. Eating well, maintaining healthy relationships, and spending time doing things we love are all parts of self-care. These actions are quite necessary and they also contribute to living a healthier and happier life!
To truly care for yourself, you need to make yourself a priority in all aspects of your life. Not just every once in a while. When I think of self-care, I think of honoring myself and genuinely loving myself. I have a full-time job as a police dispatcher and I blog part-time. So my schedule is pretty much busy even on my off days. Before I used to not care about self-care and I’d run myself dry. I learned quickly that living like that was not the way to live.
It’s okay to make time for yourself
Even with a busy schedule, I make time for myself. And the little time I do make for myself is always magical. It’s fine to take a moment away from your schedule and obligations and just tend to yourself for a bit. And besides, how are you going to take care of someone else if you are not taking care of yourself?
I remember one day I was off from work and I was already ahead of my blogging schedule. I was feeling low that day, too. So can you guess what I did that day? I went to get a pedicure and manicure, went grocery shopping, and went for a walk. That day may not seem like much but it was amazing to me. Why? I spent time with myself, away from my normal schedule and obligations, and enjoyed it. I felt great too. Self-care can be as simple as that and still make you happy and feel good inside.
Different Types of Self-care
Physical Self Care benefits your physical body. This includes sleep, nutrition, and fitness. Be sure to get enough sleep and stay active as much as possible. Your body will appreciate you for this.
Emotional Self Care improves and strengthens your emotional well-being. Practicing gratitude and journaling are examples of emotional self-care. Journaling is my absolute favorite thing to do. Writing out my emotions just helps me to understand my feelings better. You should really give it a try if you haven’t already.
Spiritual Self-care strengthens your soul. If you practice a religion, this can be time spent in prayer or even in church. If you don’t practice a specific religion, spiritual self-care can also be a form of mindfulness and meditation. It will help you find your inner peace and give your life purpose.
Environmental Self Care provides you with a comforting and functioning living space. Cleaning, decluttering, and organizing are all ways to practice environmental self-care. I declutter things around my house whenever something triggers my anxiety. It’s a great way to keep your mind occupied rather than just sitting there and overthinking.
Benefits of Self-Care
- Increases productivity
- Stress management
- Allows us to slow down and focus on the things that matter
- Improves self-esteem
- Increases self-awareness
Self-care Ideas
Self-care doesn’t have to be time-consuming. Plenty of self-care activities take just minutes. It doesn’t have to be complicated. There are lots of easy, simple activities you can do. It doesn’t have to be expensive. Self-care isn’t always about going away on weekend spa breaks or treating yourself to expensive makeup or clothes.
Simple self-care ideas for you to try:
- Practice aromatherapy
- Treat yourself to candlelight and a luxurious scent
- Go for a walk
- Listen to your favorite music
- Use essential oils
Read more self-care ideas here.
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